Level 2 Hairdressing Professional Apprenticeship

The standard on-programme duration is 22 months, followed by a 3-month End-Point Assessment (EPA) period.

A fast-track route of 9 months (plus 3 months EPA) may be available, subject to prior learning, experience and employer agreement in line with apprenticeship funding rules.

A Hairdressing Professional works independently or as part of a salon team, delivering professional hair services in accordance with legal, industry and organisational standards.

Hairdressers provide services safely, efficiently and within commercially viable timescales while maintaining excellent client satisfaction.

They are responsible for:

• Conducting client consultations and understanding client needs
• Shampooing, conditioning, cutting and styling hair
• Colouring and lightening hair using professional techniques
• Maintaining strict hygiene and health and safety standards
• Promoting retail products and additional salon services
• Maintaining professional conduct and salon presentation

Once competent, hairdressers typically work with minimal supervision while maintaining high professional standards.

Yes. Levy and non-levy employer funding is available.

Employers can use apprenticeship funding to cover the cost of training and assessment, subject to eligibility and apprenticeship funding rules

The programme is workplace-based with face-to-face learning support in a dedicated academy environment.

Delivery includes:

• Workplace-based learning
• Structured off-the-job training
• Practical demonstrations
• Professional discussions
• Portfolio development support

Apprentices must complete their required off-the-job training hours in line with apprenticeship funding requirements.

Employers must provide protected time during working hours for this training.

Before entering End-Point Assessment, apprentices must:

• Achieve Level 1 English and Maths (if required)
• Attempt Level 2 English and Maths (if required)
• Achieve the mandated qualification: Level 2 Diploma for Hair Professionals (Hairdressing)
• Complete their on-programme portfolio
• Complete a minimum of 509 off-the-job training hours
• Be confirmed as occupationally competent by their employer

The End-Point Assessment is carried out by an independent End-Point Assessment Organisation.

It typically includes:

• Practical observation
• Knowledge test
• Professional discussion

Successful completion leads to achievement of the full apprenticeship standard.

To enrol, apprentices must:

• Be employed within a hairdressing salon environment

• Demonstrate commitment to professional standards and client care

• Be motivated to develop within the hairdressing industry

Employers must provide suitable opportunities for apprentices to practise the full range of required hair services.

On successful completion, apprentices may progress to:

• Level 2 Barbering Professional
• Level 2 Customer Service Practitioner
• Level 3 Customer Service Specialist
• Level 3 Advanced and Creative Hairdressing
• Level 3 Hair, Wigs and Make-Up Prosthetics Technician
• Level 3 Wellbeing and Holistic Therapist

Career opportunities may include:

• Junior Hairdresser
• Salon Stylist Assistant
• Freelance or Mobile Hairdresser
• Salon Retail Consultant

The hair industry also offers opportunities within salons, luxury hotels, cruise ships, media styling and self-employment.

In addition to achieving the full apprenticeship standard, apprentices benefit from added-value training designed to strengthen professional credibility and workplace readiness.

Professional Membership – Trainee Membership with the Hair Council

Apprentices are supported to access trainee membership with the Hair Council, helping them begin building their professional identity within the hair industry.

Membership supports apprentices to:

• Demonstrate commitment to professional hairdressing standards
• Begin building their professional profile
• Access industry guidance and updates
• Understand the importance of professional recognition and registration

Apprentices also complete an independently CPD-accredited COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) course.

This course:

• Aligns with current UK health and safety legislation
• Develops understanding of hazardous substances used in salons
• Promotes safe handling, storage and disposal practices
• Supports compliant salon environments

This additional training strengthens workplace safety awareness and employer compliance.

As part of their development journey, apprentices can explore our wider suite of advanced training courses, supporting progression into specialist and higher-level hairdressing techniques.

View Advanced Hairdressing Courses

These opportunities help apprentices plan their next career steps and continue developing their technical expertise beyond the core apprenticeship.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all learners. Apprentices receive ongoing pastoral, academic and professional support throughout their programme.